I got out of the house again today thanks (again) to my sister and this time we were graced with the presence of this guy…the Incredible Hulk.  In my early days as a mother I would not allow a child in costume to go out in public.  As I look back I’m sure I had a reason.  Whether it was because I was afraid a princess dress would be ripped to shreds or forever be contaminated with detestable shopping cart germs.  Or perhaps I felt anxious that people would in some way judge my parenting style for letting my child out of the house dressed like their favorite character. Or maybe it was a combination?  As of right now, I can’t even think of a reason why I wouldn’t allow this. The Martha in me has chillaxed...a lot!  And I love it!  I’ve learned 3 important lessons from my 3rd go-round with a preschooler.

1. This time goes way too fast, so have.fun!  Enjoy every.minute!
2. What other people think of my parenting doesn’t matter.  I must please God…that’s it.  I have an audience of 1.
3. Pick your battles.  Does it really matter in the grand scheme of raising this child if he dresses as an Avenger?  Especially if it makes him feel so loved and super cool!?

I think it was worth any judgmental stares we may have received…like I care anyway…because I am telling you that today, even though it physically hurts, laughter is the best medicine.

We ventured out to my friend, Meijer and Jackson…I mean Hulk…helped Aunt Shell return over $31 in pop cans…the vast majority of which were of course Diet Coke.  It was quite a sight.  We definitely got some looks and laughs and the lady at Pier 1 thought he was just a hoot and a half because, well, he is.  I can’t tell you how many times I have belly laughed today usually followed by an OUCH!...and then I laughed some more.  We were in the car with the Christmas music blaring and Jackson bellered from the back…Why don’t we have our worship music anymore!?  Pleased that he had even noticed, I changed it back to our regular family-friendly station and in the next breath he said…Sprite makes me burp.  Well, alright then!  Good to know!  I just can’t get enough of this guy!  Before a day like this would have been something I took for granted…but now, today is something I am so grateful for.

When I first got sick I received a very encouraging card from a dear friend.  She said that when she thinks of me, she thinks of the verse found in Proverbs 31:25  because my laugh is contageous and she misses it.  She said that my strength and trust in our precious Lord is beyond what she can imagine.  I was so humbled and brought to tears.  I hold onto that card in my prayer journal as a reminder that no matter what my circumstances, I can laugh today and without fear of the future because I KNOW that God holds it in His all-powerful hands.

Lately I have found myself increasingly surrounded by those who lift my spirits.  Whether its my sister and I in a conversation and mid-sentance bursting into the same song in the exact same place emphasizing the same words in the exact tempo and exaggerated expression (multiple times), or my husband calling saying something hilarious only he and I would understand, or my little Hulk thinking that belching and riding the horse at Meijer dressed as an enormous green rage monster is the most fun thing ever.  I am so thankful today for those God has placed in my life that can make me laugh no matter what. It is the best medicine for this weary soul.

She is clothed with strength and dignity and laughs without fear of the future.  Proverbs 31:25